3200m
2019 State Champion: Josh Methner (Sr., Arlington Heights [Hersey]) 9:06.88
Key returners: Methner, Jared Kreis (Sr., New Lenox [Lincoln-Way Central]), Brett Gardner (Sr., Frankfort [Lincoln-Way East]), Ian Geisler (Sr., Huntley), Tyler Cushing (Sr., Bolingbrook), Charlie Wetzel (Sr., Normal West), Jake Allen (Sr., Naperville North), Bob Liking (Sr., St. Charles East), Guillermo Ibarra (Sr., Berwyn-Cicero [Morton]), Nathan Schmitt (Sr., Lake Forest), Charlie Smith (Sr., Antioch), Ben Rosa (Sr., Lake Forest), Spencer Werner (So., Wilmette [Loyola Academy]), William Hauenstein (Sr., Wheaton-Warrenville South), Micah Wilson (So., St. Charles East)
Outlook: After a few years of so-so depth, things are now plentiful here. The list of key returners could be stretched a reading chapter's length if allowed to...
Depth is an important feature in determining how strong an event is, but possessing a superstar gives it vitality and validity as a whole... and for reference sake, recent cross country success matters if applicable.
To kick things off, Josh Methner is the guy to watch out for.here as the anticipation on the track will be at an all-time high. Why? After producing the greatest overall cross country season in state history, the expectations are high. Methner has put himself in a position to challenge the likes of Craig Virgin, Lukas Verzbicas, Donald Sage, and several other immortals on the oval. It will interesting to see if he can challenge the 8:40 barrier this spring. After Nico Young's recent indoor national 3k record, Methner has to be seething. Perhaps they will meet at the fabled Arcadia Invitational in California in April. Regardless, it is going to be a wonderful time to be a distance running fan this season!
On paper, Jared Kreis has the top billing at 9:02.47. He is a strong candidate to go under 9:00 as will pal Brett Gardner. The forgotten one Guillermo Ibarra placed third at state but after a tough finish to his cross country season he is off the radar... for now.
Overall, and once again there are many names that will be heard from loud and clear. Whether you are a distance fan or not, you are going to enjoy what is to come this spring!